Collaboration the key to the future of Christchurch

The rebuild of Christchurch is getting the wobbles.

There are some very tough decisions to take about which heritage buildings can be preserved, the design of the new CBD, and where the new construction should begin.

Underpinning this is a major challenge over time; the urgency of getting things done quickly to have people and businesses up and running ASAP, versus taking the time to plan well.

Dealing with clients in Christchurch, I have heard a few horror stories about SERA, the government agency responsible for rebuilding after the earthquake, and their lack of consultation with business property owners.

They appear to take a few unilateral decisions overriding the needs and wants of local businesses.

The mistake the government and the city council appear to be making is their unwillingness to fully engage with affected local businesses.

A good example of this is the recommendation to set low-rise height limits in the CBD.

Now this is understandable as a reaction to the devastation and major issues with taller buildings during the quakes, but it is not taking account of the cost benefit issues for investors. There is a risk a regulation could be set that makes it economically unviable for property developers.

There has to be a commercial reality to the rebuild, and a strategic approach that is born of detailed collaboration.

Good collaboration does not have to take a long time. It is about building relationships, being clear in communication, and setting some specific goals and outcomes.

Too often people make decisions in isolation. I have seen it time and again in commercial lease property negotiations. And inevitably, the deals that succeed as win-win for landlord and business lease holders alike are those where a collaborative approach has been taken.